Experience Circus History

Explore Circus World

What began with less than an acre of land, six historic circus wagons plus a lot of grit, determination, and passion, has now become an internationally recognized and respected institution encompassing 64 acres, 30 permanent structures, seven winter quarters buildings along Water Street, plus the Ringling Bros. Circus Train shed complex, and over 260 spectacular wagons. Circus World truly is “Wisconsin’s National Treasure!”

Our Treasures

As other entertainment forms gained popularity, Circus World began documenting and collecting important treasures of the American Circus. From original Ringling Circus buildings to the smallest flea circus prop

Our Treasures will astonish!

Members Get Free Admission!

Become a Wisconsin Historical Society member and visit all 12 of our historic sites for free! Membership pays for itself in as little as two visits and includes other great benefits like discounts and reciprocal benefits to more than 1,200 organizations.


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Circus World

Circus World

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Circus World - Official

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4 hours ago
Circus World

The Most Unique Congregation on Earth exhibit debuted March 18, and features a number of interesting circus ministry artifacts from the museum collection, and on loan from members of the circus ministry, all on display for the first time to help bring this little-known aspect of the big top to life.

Make your 2024 travel plans to visit us here at Circus World.
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3 days ago
Circus World

Looking to shine on your Spring Break? Plan a visit to explore the timeless traditions of the American circus here at Circus World. Explore our amazing wagon collection, featuring gilded greats such as the Cinderella pony Float built for the Barnum & London circus circa 1886. (photo courtesy of Bill Johnsen).

Save time upon your arrival and purchase your tickets in advance here:
buy.acmeticketing.com/orders/514/calendar?cart=true&eventId=621f981ed751820835ea2d4c
... See MoreSee Less

Looking to shine on your Spring Break? Plan a visit to explore the timeless traditions of the American circus here at Circus World. Explore our amazing wagon collection, featuring gilded greats such as the Cinderella pony Float built for the Barnum & London circus circa 1886. (photo courtesy of Bill Johnsen). 

Save time upon your arrival and purchase your tickets in advance here:
https://buy.acmeticketing.com/orders/514/calendar?cart=true&eventId=621f981ed751820835ea2d4c

Comment on Facebook

Hope the gift shop brings back the CWM mousepad! Mine's about worn out and I want to keep the spare un-used.

Dear Circus World Museum Gift Shop: As with the CIRCUS - it's all about the MERCH!

My favorite wagon is the Lion and Mirror wagon

My favorite Wagon at Circus World.

ooooh need to swing by for a new sweatshirt. Is the gift shop stocked up with new goodies?

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